This bright and colorful spring pasta salad is perfect for sunny days. With fresh veggies, yummy pasta, and your choice of protein, it’s both tasty and filling!
I love throwing in leftover chicken or some chickpeas for extra protein. It makes a great lunch or side dish at picnics! Plus, it’s quick to whip up—you’ll have more time for fun! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle adds a fun shape and texture. If you don’t have it, any pasta like rotini or penne will work well. Gluten-free pasta is also a great substitution for those avoiding gluten.
Fresh Peas: Fresh peas are sweet and vibrant, but frozen peas are a fantastic alternative. Just make sure they’re thawed before adding them to the salad. They’re a time-saver!
Protein: I love using ground turkey or chicken for their lightness. You can easily swap for canned chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian option. Grilled shrimp or diced rotisserie chicken are also solid choices.
Dill: Fresh dill brings a lovely flavor. If you can’t find it, parsley or cilantro can work, although they will change the overall taste. Dried dill can be used in a pinch—just reduce the amount.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
The key to tasty pasta is cooking it just right! Start by bringing salted water to a rolling boil. The salt enhances flavor. Add the farfalle and follow the package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes. Taste a piece — it should be ‘al dente’, firm with a little bite.
- In the last 2 minutes, toss in the peas to cook them with the pasta.
- Once done, drain and rinse the pasta and peas under cold water to stop cooking.
- This step keeps your salad fresh and prevents mushiness.
Spring Pasta Salad with Protein
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Salad:
- 8 oz farfalle (bow-tie) pasta
- 1 cup fresh peas (or frozen, thawed)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 4 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and halved
- 1/2 cup cooked ground turkey or chicken (optional, seasoned)
- 1/4 cup fresh dill sprigs, plus extra for garnish
For the Dressing:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge for the best flavors. So, in total, you’ll need about 45 minutes to make this refreshing dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta and Peas:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rapid boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes around 10-12 minutes. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, throw in the peas to cook them together with the pasta.
2. Drain and Cool:
Once the pasta and peas are done, carefully drain them in a colander. Then, rinse them under cold water to cool them down and stop the cooking process. Make sure to drain them well—no one likes a watery salad!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk them together until well mixed—this will give your salad a zesty flavor!
4. Combine Ingredients:
Add the cooled pasta and peas to the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together gently to ensure the pasta and peas are evenly coated with that delicious dressing.
5. Add Vegetables and Protein:
Now, gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh spinach leaves, any cooked ground turkey or chicken you’re using, and the fresh dill. Take care to mix it without breaking the pasta or eggs.
6. Serve the Salad:
Transfer the pasta salad to a platter or serve it on individual plates. Top it with the halved hard-boiled eggs for a beautiful presentation.
7. Garnish and Chill:
Garnish with extra dill sprigs and a sprinkle of black pepper for an added touch. If you have time, chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This step is optional but allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
Enjoy this light and fresh Spring Pasta Salad, perfect for picnics or as a side dish for your spring gatherings. It’s packed with protein and vibrant veggies, making it a delightful treat!
Can I Use Different Pasta Types for This Salad?
Absolutely! While farfalle gives a nice shape, you can substitute any pasta you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to enjoy them within this timeframe as the ingredients will begin to change in texture over time.
What Could I Substitute for Fresh Dill?
If you can’t find fresh dill, you can use parsley or cilantro for a different flavor profile. If you’re using dried dill, remember to use less, as it’s more concentrated.
Can This Salad Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes, definitely! You can make the salad up to a day ahead. Just be sure to wait to add the hard-boiled eggs until you’re ready to serve, for the freshest texture and look.
